What does genetic engineering involve?

Genetic engineering involves the modification of genetic material to enhance or alter the characteristics of an organism for specific purposes, such as medical therapies, agricultural improvements, or industrial applications. This process utilizes a variety of techniques, including recombinant DNA technology, to directly manipulate the genes within an organism's genome. For instance, in medicine, genetic engineering can be used to produce insulin or other therapeutic proteins, while in agriculture, it might involve engineering plants to be more resistant to pests or to tolerate harsh environmental conditions.

The other options, while related to biology and genetics, do not accurately describe genetic engineering itself. Creating new species through natural selection occurs over long periods through evolutionary processes without the targeted intervention that defines genetic engineering. Cross-breeding different species of plants is a form of traditional breeding that relies on natural reproductive processes rather than direct manipulation of genetic material. Similarly, utilizing traditional farming practices encompasses various agricultural methods but does not involve the modern techniques characteristic of genetic engineering.